Thinking about visiting Épernay and getting a taste of its legendary sparkling wines? This particular tour offers a stylish way to explore the town and its surrounds while enjoying some of the region’s finest champagnes. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a tasting—who also want a scenic drive, engaging stories, and a bit of fun flamboyance with a sabrage demonstration.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the knowledgeable guide, Marie-Antoinette, who’s passionate about the region and shares insights that make the story of Champagne feel personal, and the spectacular panoramic views from the open-top bus, which add a special touch to the sightseeing. A third highlight is the three tastings integrated into the journey, allowing you to savor different champagnes without rushing around from cellar to cellar.

One consideration? The duration of 1.5 to 2 hours means it’s a quick, relaxed overview rather than an in-depth exploration of all Champagne’s nuances. If you’re after a deep dive into specific houses or styles, you might want to supplement this with additional visits. Still, for first-timers or those who prefer a light, scenic experience, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience suits travelers who want a fun, informative, and beautifully scenic introduction to Épernay and Champagne. It’s perfect for visitors short on time but eager to get a good sense of the region’s highlights, with a touch of celebratory flair.

Key Points

Comfortable, stylish open-top bus with panoramic views makes sightseeing fun and memorable.
Expert local guide Marie-Antoinette shares engaging stories and insights about Champagne.
Three champagne tastings included, paired with a savory snack for a balanced experience.
Flexible itinerary: visits Avenue de Champagne, vineyards, Hautvillers, and optionally Aÿ.
Spectacular sabrage demonstration adds a festive, fun element.
Ideal for those wanting a quick, scenic taste of Champagne with plenty of picture opportunities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Épernay Champagne Bus Tour

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Epernay

The Unique Open-Top Experience

From the moment you step onto the open-top bus, you notice how different this tour feels compared to a typical cellar visit. The stylish, imperial-style vehicle offers sweeping views of rolling vineyards, historic streets, and the vibrant heart of Épernay. We loved the way the bus’s design emphasizes elegance, making it feel special without being overly lavish.

The panoramic views are genuinely one of the biggest perks here—being able to see the landscape stretch out around you makes the experience more immersive. It’s a great way to appreciate the scale and beauty of the Champagne region without leaving your seat. Keep in mind, weather can influence your comfort—on very rainy days, the open top might be less enjoyable, so check the forecast.

The Guide: Marie-Antoinette

One of the key strengths of this tour is the local guide. Marie-Antoinette is a native of the region and a descendant of winemakers, which lends her storytelling a genuine passion and depth. She shares fun facts, anecdotes, and historical tidbits that go beyond the standard facts, making the region feel alive.

Several reviewers have praised her for being knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. Her ability to make the history and culture accessible adds real value, especially if you’re curious about the stories behind the wines. She also explains the art of sabrage in a lighthearted way, which makes the demonstration entertaining rather than formal.

The Itinerary: Highlights and Considerations

The tour kicks off at the Office de Tourisme d’Épernay, the natural starting point. From there, you’ll cruise along the famous Avenue de Champagne, home to some of the most prestigious Champagne houses. This street is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you’ll get a good look at the grandeur of the Champagne industry.

Next, the bus takes you through vineyard landscapes, where you’ll see the rolling hills and grapevines that produce the region’s famous Champagne. It’s a scenic drive that helps you understand the geography and climate that make Champagne unique.

A highlight is the visit to Hautvillers, the village where Dom Pérignon is said to have pioneered some techniques of Champagne-making. It’s a charming spot with historic charm, and the short photo stop here is appreciated. For those on the 2-hour version, a stop in Aÿ is included, giving a chance to photograph the prestigious Bollinger Champagne house, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Champagne Tastings & Food Pairing

What sets this tour apart from many others is the three tastings of Champagne incorporated into the ride. The champagnes are carefully selected and paired with a small savory snack, which helps balance the bubbly’s acidity and complements the flavors.

Guests often comment on the quality of the tastings—they are generous and varied enough to give a good sense of the region’s diversity. The fact that you don’t need to visit multiple cellars or book separate tastings makes this a convenient, value-packed experience.

While you're exploring Epernay, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Sabrage Demonstration

A fun addition is the sabrage demonstration, where the guide skillfully opens a Champagne bottle with a saber. It’s more than just a trick—it’s a festivity, a symbol of celebration. The lighthearted display tends to get smiles and applause, making it a memorable highlight even for those who aren’t typically into wine.

Duration and Group Size

At 1.5 to 2 hours, this tour is on the shorter side, which suits those with limited time but still wanting a taste of Champagne’s beauty and culture. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for interaction with the guide and enough space to enjoy the views comfortably.

Cost & Value

While specific prices aren’t provided here, the value lies in the combination of sightseeing, expert narration, multiple tastings, and the scenic journey. It’s a hassle-free way to get an overview of Épernay’s highlights without the expense or effort of visiting multiple cellars independently. For first-timers or casual visitors, it offers a balanced, enjoyable package.

What Reviewers Say

Guests consistently mention how knowledgeable and personable Marie-Antoinette is, making the journey informative and fun. One reviewer notes, “She’s a passionate storyteller, and her stories made the region come alive.” Others appreciate the spectacular views and the relaxed pace, which allows for plenty of photo opportunities and enjoyment.

Some comments mention that the tastings are generous, and the snacks are a good touch, especially after a few glasses of champagne. The sabrage is a crowd favorite, described as “lighthearted and impressive,” adding a celebratory feel to the tour.

Practical Considerations

Weather: Since the bus is open-top, a raincoat or umbrella might be helpful if the forecast looks unpredictable.
Language options: The tour is offered in multiple languages, including Dutch, English, French, and German, making it accessible for many travelers.
Cancellation policy: There’s flexibility here—can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, which is perfect if you want to keep plans flexible.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a light, scenic, and engaging way to experience Épernay and its sparkling heritage. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to see the highlights from a comfortable vantage point. If you love fun demonstrations, like sabrage, and want to enjoy several tastings without multiple commitments, this fits the bill.

It also appeals to those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and want to learn about Champagne in a friendly, approachable environment. While it isn’t a detailed cellar tour, it offers a delightful overview that captures the essence of the region, making it excellent for first-timers or casual enthusiasts.

FAQs About the Épernay Champagne Bus Tour

Is the bus open top?
Yes, the bus is an open-top vehicle, which offers great panoramic views of the vineyards and Épernay. Check the weather forecast before booking, as rain can make the experience less comfortable.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours, giving you a relaxed overview without feeling rushed.

What is included in the tastings?
You will taste three different glasses of Champagne during the journey, paired with a small savory snack. The specific bottles aren’t named, but the selection is thoughtfully curated.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Office de Tourisme d’Épernay. The bus is easy to spot, and the meeting point is well-marked.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Are there language options for the guide?
Yes, the tour is available in Dutch, English, French, and German, with audio guides also provided in these languages.

Is this suitable for families or children?
The tour is more suited for adults interested in Champagne and sightseeing. Children might find it less engaging, especially given the focus on tastings and the open-top bus.

Ready to Book?

Épernay: Champagne Open-Top Bus Tour with 3 Tastings

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Épernay and want a stylish, relaxed way to see the sights and sample some of the region’s best champagnes, this open-top bus tour is a great choice. It combines scenic views, engaging storytelling, and delicious tastings into a manageable package that won’t overwhelm your schedule.

The knowledgeable guide and the fun sabrage demonstration add personality and flair, making it a memorable experience. While it’s not an in-depth cellar tour, it’s a fantastic introduction to Champagne’s sparkling world—especially if you’re after something light, lively, and scenic.

This tour offers excellent value for those who appreciate good storytelling, beautiful landscapes, and quality bubbles. It’s best suited for casual explorers and first-time visitors eager to get a taste of Champagne in style.